Varna koota
Varna koota is the first of the eight Guna Milan factors, worth 1 point. It compares the varna of the two Moon signs, read today as temperament and approach to work.
Also known as: Varna kuta, Varna milan, Varna guna, varna koot
Each Moon sign belongs to one of four varnas according to its element. Water signs (Cancer, Scorpio, Pisces) are Brahmin; fire signs (Aries, Leo, Sagittarius) Kshatriya; earth signs (Taurus, Virgo, Capricorn) Vaishya; and air signs (Gemini, Libra, Aquarius) Shudra.
The traditional rule gives 1 point when the groom’s varna is equal to or higher than the bride’s, and 0 otherwise. Modern astrologers read it as a match of outlook and working style. It has nothing to do with caste or social standing.
With only 1 point at stake, Varna rarely decides a match. It is the lightest of the kootas and is easily outweighed by the others.